Many companies are aware of Agile software development methods. It’s the preferred option for most teams because it can continuously deliver promising results. The ability to customize features within such software and to make changes allows any business to gain significant value from it.
With Agile, businesses also get the flexibility they need. Each business is unique, and a program that can address those specific elements is important. The ability of Agile concepts to efficiently develop software for a wide variety of realms with amazing features is fascinating. Yet, this process didn’t just materialize overnight.
The history behind the Agile software development life cycle is worth taking a closer look at. Each step in this development process is important for reaching milestones. The process has also solved various problems as they come along. And with changes to technology and consumer demand, new challenges emerge all the time.
Results in Less Time
One of the problems Agile software development resolved is the amount of time it takes to create software. Faster software development allows a business to both implement and benefit from it sooner. This method ensures the software has been proven to work effectively.
Another area of success with Agile has to do with identifying and resolving the problems of a business. Issues are addressed, and changes are made to improve the processing. The system involves testing and updating as necessary. And, as a result, the software is made with cutting-edge technology and the best outcomes. Outdated practices are far behind us!
Waterfall Methodology
The driving force of the Agile software development life cycle has to do with the waterfall methodology. It reduces the long, drawn-out process from the original concept to the software’s completion. This method involves focusing on one aspect and testing it for the best outcome. Testing takes place in stages along the way in order to immediately fix any issues.
In 2000, a group of 17 software developers gathered to discuss various software development issues. This group included some of the top names, including Jon Kern and Bob Martin. The goal of this discussion was to discover a way to create new software in less time. They also understood that effective communication is the key to making any necessary changes and updates that improve the final product.
This group created the foundation that Agile methods were built upon. The three core aspects of this concept are
- Create software quickly and implement it
- Request feedback from users once they begin using it
- Make continuous updates and improvements (as necessary) to ensure the software is useful.
A year after that first meeting, the same group of developers was once again in the room to discuss issues. They were thrilled with the progress they’d made. At that time, they were after a permanent solution to continue expanding Agile’s influence. They created what has been referred to as the Agile Manifesto. It has four key concepts:
- Attention is given to users and interactions before tools or procedures.
- User-friendly software would be a priority over documentation.
- Contract negotiations would include collaborating with customers.
There should be a concrete plan of action for implementing the use of new software for a business.
The driving factors behind the Agile Manifesto were to ensure customers were heard and satisfied with the software. Embracing necessary changes, rather than putting them off, would allow users to continuously benefit from the features of the software.
These concepts continue to be the center of Agile software development today. Other developers have taken note and recognized the value this has offered. It’s created a solid relationship between software developers and its end users, opening up communication lines to develop better features in less time.
Related Content: 8 Advantages to Using the Agile Software Development Life Cycle Method
Agile Alliance
These early meetings also led to the creation of the Agile Alliance. This is a non-profit organization that helps teams learn how to use Agile methods to create software, providing the best services. Moreover, this organization is dedicated to expanding their reach within various companies in order to help more people.
Since 2003, an annual conference has been held to discuss ideas and concepts. Those in attendance are dedicated to learning the Agile principles and exploring them further. They are open to new ideas and bring feedback to share with the group. It’s become an effective way to meet other professionals in software development, and learn something new.
More and more developers have become interested in joining this alliance. They communicate throughout the year via newsletters. Some of them reach out through annual events and share whatever ideas or challenges they currently have. It’s given them a chance to collaborate with peers to help each other reach goals.'
What Will the Future Hold?
Today, the creation of most software follows the Agile methodology. Despite its major success and great influence, the history of Agile software development’s life cycle doesn’t end here! While we don’t know what the future holds, companies continue to seek feedback from consumers to take their concepts for software development to the next level.
Flexibility and evolution continue to be part of the driving force behind successful software creation. As long as development teams follow the right approach, software can evolve and reach new levels of improvement.
Technology has moved at an amazing speed, but this didn’t prevent software developers from doing what they have to do: remain open to feedback from users and adopt new changes based on demand. Developing software the Agile way is a revolutionary discovery. The software development industry shouldn’t forget how it started from scratch.
Related Content: 4 Top Trends in Agile Development
Applying Agile SDLC
This article mainly highlights the history of Agile development. If you’re interested in learning more about this concept and how you can implement it for your project, we can help. Bydrec is a nearshore software development company that specializes in Agile methodologies. Contact us at 888-864-3124 for more information!
